Ekta Nagar, Oct. 31 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, celebrated as 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' or National Unity Day, and recalled his immense contribution towards unifying India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to the 'Iron Man of India' at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on the occasion of National Unity Day, celebrated in honour of Sardar Patel's birth anniversary.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India's integration, thus shaping our nation's destiny in its formative years."

"He continued, "His unwavering commitment to national integrity...